Intel Corp. revealed an initiative to help communities use wireless technology and innovative applications to expand and improve services for municipal governments, businesses and citizens.

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Under the "Digital Communities" initiative, Intel is leading a diverse group of high-tech companies to help 13 "pilot" communities design, develop and deploy comprehensive solutions and services to enhance government efficiency, promote economic growth, foster greater community satisfaction and bridge the digital divide. The applications range from automating mobile workers, such as meter readers and building inspectors, to increasing the safety and enhancing resource management of first responders by remotely monitoring vehicle location to enhancing parent-teacher collaboration for improved student success.

Cleveland; Corpus Christi, Texas; Philadelphia; and Taipei, Taiwan, are among the worldwide pilot communities using technology industriously today.

"As wireless technology continues to evolve, local governments are seizing the opportunity to address critical issues in their community, including equal and affordable access to broadband and more efficient and effective government services," said Anand Chandrasekher, vice president and director, Intel Sales and Marketing Group. "We are working closely with these communities to help them take the next step and harness the benefits of wireless technology. The benefits include lower cost of operations, enhanced public safety and security, and a foundation for growth and competitiveness."

The Digital Communities pilots span major geographies, including the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific. In addition to the four pilot communities previously mentioned, other participating cities include Portland, Ore., in the United States, along with Mangaratiba, Brazil; Dusseldorf, Germany; Gyor, Hungary; Jerusalem, Israel; Principality of Monaco; Seoul, South Korea; Osaka, Japan; and Westminster, United Kingdom.

Intel is working closely with Cisco, Dell, IBM and SAP to help communities around the world replicate the successful installments in the pilot communities, which span from small cities to major metropolitan areas.